Muhammad's (peace be upon him) Finest Qualities

The last messenger of Islam, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), was sent by Allah out of compassion for all living things. He was born in Mecca in 570 CE and led a life marked by honesty, kindness, modesty, and resilience. His words (Hadith), deeds (Sunnah), and character have influenced billions throughout history and still serve as a source of guidance today.

Here is a summary highlighting some of the most valuable teachings, qualities, and lessons from his life, aimed at helping readers recognise and value his legacy.

 Kindness and Empathy

The Prophet's remarkable compassion was among his most prominent traits. He treated his companions with gentleness, showed forgiveness to his enemies, and extended kindness to all living creatures.

"I have only sent you, O Muhammad, as a pity to all creation."

(The Qur'an, Chapter 21, Verse 107)

 Sincerity and reliability

He was renowned as Al-Ameen (the Trustworthy) even before he became a prophet. People would entrust him with the protection of their belongings. His adversaries continued to believe in his character, notwithstanding the rejection of his message.

"Oh Allah! I attest that I have fulfilled the trust and delivered the message.

(From his last homily.)

He preached that honesty leads to righteousness, which leads to paradise, and that lying is an indication of hypocrisy.

"Righteousness leads to paradise, and truthfulness leads to righteousness."

(Bukhari and Muslim)

 Humbleness and Dottiness

He was a leader and a prophet, but he led a humble life. He never asked for comfort, patched his clothes, and slept on crude mats. He welcomed individuals from all walks of life, ate with slaves, and wandered with the impoverished.

"Anyone who sacrifices themselves for Allah's sake will gain more status from Allah."

(Muslim)

He detested conceit and reportedly remarked that a person could not enter Paradise if they had even a tiny bit of pride in their heart.

 Equality and Impartiality

Regardless of the parties involved, the Prophet steadfastly advocated for justice. He declared that he would enforce the law equally even if his own daughter, Fatima, stole.

"People before you were destroyed because they punished the poor while ignoring the nobles."

(Bukhari)

Regardless of origin, wealth, or colour, he preached that all people are created equal before God.

"All people are descended from Adam and Eve. Apart from piety, neither Arabs nor non-Arabs are superior to one another.

(Extracted from the Last Sermon)

 Forbearance and Amnesty

Many people who had wronged him were forgiven by him. He pardoned all of his previous adversaries when he returned to Mecca after being forced to leave years before.

"You won't be held accountable today. You are at liberty.

(Said when Mecca was conquered.)

He patiently put up with violence, boycotts, and insults. He didn't seek retribution when he was stoned in Ta'if. Rather, he prayed for their direction.

"Pardon my people, O Allah, for they are ignorant."

 Prioritising Intentions

The Prophet (S) taught that an action's worth is determined by its purpose.

"Intentions determine actions, and everyone will receive what they intended."

(Bukhari and Muslim)

This lesson serves as a reminder to believers to be truthful in whatever they do, including working, praying, and assisting others.

 Being considerate of women and children

The Prophet (S) was a kind parent and a devoted husband. In a society that had denied women their dignity, he placed a strong emphasis on treating them with care and respect and granting them rights.

"I am the best of you to my wives, and the best of you are those who are the best to their wives."

(Tirmidhi)

He would smile when he greeted them, play with them, and hold his grandchildren on his shoulders even throughout.

 Promoting Unity and Brotherhood

By encouraging fraternity, love, and support, he created a solid community. He disapproved of divisiveness, anger, and jealousy.

"Until he loves his brother as much as he loves himself, none of you can truly believe."

(Bukhari and Muslim)

In order to foster harmony and collaboration, the Prophet (S) established relationships amongst Muslims from various tribes and even negotiated treaties with non-Muslims.

 Respect for creations and the Environment

The Prophet Muhammad (S) promoted kindness towards all living things, resource conservation, and tree planting.

"It is a charitable gift if a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds and a bird, person, or animal eats from it."

(Bukhari)

He preached that being kind to animals makes the Creator happy and avoided wasting water, especially while washing.

 A Close Relationship with Allah

The Prophet (S) never abandoned his devotion and prayers in spite of his many obligations. He frequently cried out of love and fear for Allah, prayed through the night (called tahazzud), and inspired others to have a close relationship with their Creator.

"A servant is closest to his Lord when he is in prostration."

(Muslim)

 The Last Sermon: A Concluding Remark

The Prophet's (S) final lecture at Mount Arafat encapsulated the essential tenets of Islam:

 Respect human life and dignity.

 Honour women's rights

 Be fair to others.

 Stay away from racism and tribalism.

 Worship only Allah.

 For guidance, abide by the Qur'an and the Sunnah.

"The Qur'an and my Sunnah are the two things I leave behind. You won't ever get lost if you follow them.

A perfect example of how to live a life of kindness, justice, humility, and love for Allah and creation may be seen in the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). He lived to help, mentor, and inspire others rather than to gain fame, fortune, or power. Millions of people are still motivated to live moral, purposeful, and caring lives by his teachings.

"Yes, the Messenger of Allah is a lovely model for those who remember Allah frequently and hope for Allah and the Last Day."

(The Qur'an 33:21)

May the honourable Prophet (peace be upon him), the truth-teller, and the human being's benefactor receive peace and blessings.